Years ago, we only plugged in one or two appliances: the refrigerator and the oven. Then came the microwave. Then came the death of gas stoves in favor of ceramic or induction cooktops. And let’s not forget all those rice cookers, waffle or sandwich makers, air fryers, blenders, ice crushers…the kitchen is usually full of appliances, but there is only one that poses a real danger. We are talking about the toaster.
The toaster is an appliance that gradually accumulates crumbs, bread and food scraps. When it turns off, Its resistors remain incandescent and stay hot for a short period of time. If we leave the device connected, it may short circuit and ignite the flame on the remaining breath.
There are some accessories that are recommended to be unplugged for digital security reasons. Others, for physical security. And the toaster is perhaps one of the most at risk because its electrical components can overheat. Of course, if you don’t want to unplug it, there is a much more practical alternative: using a WiFi connection plug. These plugs have smart options, They sync with your WiFi network and you can turn them off and cut the power with a simple digital switch
How to avoid fire risks
Today, Apple HomeKit is compatible with thousands of devices such as WiFi switches and allows you to forget about plugging or unplugging. In addition, they help you save, since a plug displays a consumption report and you can choose which kW limit not to exceed. Most of these plugs have an application that you can download thanks to a QR code available on the packaging of the plug itself, and This way you can connect the WiFi network you share with your iPhone.
In any case, we strongly recommend cleaning up crumbs and food scraps after using the toaster. If it has a removable tray it will be much easieras well as keeping it away from objects that can ignite quickly and fuel a possible fire, such as paper towel rolls or dish towels.
And of course, it is advisable to check the cables and connections from time to time, because the toaster may melt some of the cable with excess heat. If a cable is visibly worn, it is a sign that it must be replaced to avoid major problems.
The Best Smart Plugs for Home Security
On the other hand, The advantage of smart plugs is undeniable. There are many smart plugs and at Applesfera we have told you about many alternatives, such as the pack of four Meross smart plugs compatible with Apple HomeKit or those of Eve Energy, also available in a pack of 4 and compatible with HomeKit:
Eve Energy (Matter) 4-Pack – Smart Plug, Remote Control, 100% Privacy, Compatible with Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, Requires Thread Edge Router
*Some prices may have changed since last review
But this is not the only option available. Other alternatives, such as the GHome Smart offer, have an application that offers you a measurement of energy consumption, which translates into a precise file to avoid unnecessary expenses now that the climbs are coming for the start of the school year. This socket supports the maximum current of 16A and a maximum power of 3680W:
GHome Smart Smart Plug, Smart Alexa Plug Compatible with Alexa Google Home, APP Remote Control, Measure Energy Consumption, Voice Control Timer, ONLY on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, 4pcs White
*Some prices may have changed since last review
Finally, we highlight an Amazon bestseller, the popular TP-Link Tapo P100whose model supports voice remote control. These plugs have a very small size of 72 mm x 51 mm, to avoid blocking adjacent European plugs, in addition to being compatible with AC 220-240 V current up to a maximum load of 23,000 W:
TP-Link Tapo P100 (4 Pack) – Mini Wi-Fi Smart Plug, Great for Scheduling On/Off and Saving Energy, No HUB Required, Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
*Some prices may have changed since last review
Interior Image | Kenny Eliason
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